Bangladesh reinforced its position as the leading denim exporter to the United States in 2025, posting strong growth while global rivals, particularly China, recorded steep declines.
According to data from the Office of Textiles and Apparel (OTEXA), Bangladesh’s denim exports to the US rose to $955.70 million in 2025 from $712.87 million a year earlier, marking a 34.06 per cent year-on-year increase.
With the surge, Bangladesh captured 25.97 per cent of the US denim import market, widening its lead over competitors in a sector that continues to expand despite global economic headwinds.
China, once a dominant force in the denim export market, saw exports to the US fall 51.22 per cent to $171.99 million in 2025 from $352.60 million in 2024.
As a result, its market share dropped to 4.67 per cent.
Mexico, the second-largest supplier, recorded a 2.18 per cent decline, with exports slipping to $640 million, securing a 17.39 per cent share.
Asian competitors Vietnam and Pakistan posted growth of 26.33 per cent and 16.62 per cent respectively, but remained well behind Bangladesh in total export value.
Indonesia and India recorded the highest growth at 68.80 per cent and 61.21 per cent respectively, although their shares remained below 2 per cent each, indicating gradual diversification in sourcing by US retailers.
Overall, the US denim import market expanded 8.95 per cent in 2025 to $3.68 billion, showing Bangladesh is not only benefiting from market growth but also capturing share from traditional suppliers such as China and Mexico.
Former Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) director Mohiuddin Rubel said the strong performance reflects the country’s growing capability in value-added denim production and its reputation as a reliable sourcing destination.
He said continued investment in sustainability, efficiency, and compliance has helped Bangladesh gain buyers’ confidence, enabling it to capture market share amid shifting global trade dynamics.
He, however, cautioned that rising energy costs and geopolitical uncertainties could pose challenges to sustaining the momentum and urged policymakers and industry stakeholders to ensure a stable and competitive business environment.
